Every month we will identify the 6 most commonly asked questions about ectopic pregnancy and answer them. If you have any further questions which you cannot find answers to on the website, please can you contact us.
Can corona viruses (Covid-19) cause an ectopic pregnancy?
The COVID pandemic has had a major impact on the population of the United Kingdom and around the world. It has been stated that Covid-19 has been responsible for over 150,000 deaths in the UK. There is no evidence that COVID-19 or any of its variants can be a cause or risk factor for the development of an ectopic pregnancy. However changes in the way that health care is provided with the widespread use of virtual appointments could have major implications. As stated on our website in the COVID-19 link and the home page link on “Do You Have An Ectopic Pregnancy“, you should seek a face-to-face consultation without delay. This could be at your GP, early pregnancy assessment unit, or an A&E department.
What resources are available to help me with an ectopic pregnancy loss?
Ectopic pregnancy is a serious and increasingly common condition that account for up to 1-2% of pregnancy in the United Kingdom. If treated surgically it is usually a one night stay. If there is follow up it could be with your general practitioner. It is well recognised that there maybe psychological issues and it maybe possible for counselling to be arranged. Click here for the psychological aspects of ectopic pregnancy. Also some find it helpful to post details of their experiences and read about other women. Please click here for our Case Histories.
A goal of the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation is to establish a counselling service once we have raised sufficient funding. The EPF does not receive central funding but relies solely on the generous donations from the general public, who have undertaken charitable events including tea parties, and others running marathons. Due to the COVID epidemic the donations have dropped significantly, and you could donate by clicking here to donate via our website.
Can endometriosis be a contributory factor in ectopic pregnancy?
Endometriosis is an increasing common gynaecological condition which is a well recognised risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. Please click here for a comprehensive explanation of endometriosis, including definition, symptoms and treatment modalities.
Can shoulder pain in both shoulders indicate that I might have an ectopic pregnancy?
Various musculoskeletal aches may occur in early pregnancy and are self limiting. When an ectopic pregnancy causes bleeding into the abdomen, when the woman lies flat, blood tracks up under the diaphragm and causes referred pain typically called shoulder tip pain.
What information is available on the surgical management of ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy can usually treated medically if diagnosed early enough. Surgical treatment is usually preformed. Key hole (laparoscopically), but occasionally open surgery. The operations that can be undertaken depends on the clinical findings. It maybe that part of the Fallopian tube is removed (partial saplingectomy) or an incision made over the Fallopian tube at the site of the ectopic pregnancy and pregnancy removed. Click here for more information on the surgical management of ectopic pregnancy and here for videos of the various surgical techniques.
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